The bout of warm weather and practically no winter
has brought on the advent of processionary caterpillar in pine trees and many
have already dropped from their nests.
The processionary has hairs all over its body which protect it from predators. Touching
the hairs may cause skin irritation but the caterpillar is also capable of
launching the irritant in these hairs into the air if threatened.
Processionary caterpillars are particularly dangerous for dogs and other pets.
The caterpillars are born and bred in white silk like bags hanging from pine trees.
When they are ready to drop they can be seen hanging from these bags. When they
drop to the ground they attach to one another to form long chains in the form
of a procession.
The caterpillars seek other pine trees to feed on before changing into a chrysalis
and then into a butterfly.
However, these insects are to be avoided. Walkers and especially walkers with
dogs should take special care to avoid contact or close encounters. Some people
may have an allergic reaction.
If you are concerned after contact with a processionary visit your GP. If your
dog has contact with a processionary seek advice from your vet immediately.
